Reference no: EM133223281

Conversely, the law is legally binding and serves as a definitive administrative tool that can ultimately serve to erode the individual liberties of Americans, especially if law enforcement action is necessary. Social customs might seek to change the law with the intent to reduce individual liberties but will not have the same degree of impact as a law if implemented. For example, going against popular social customs might earn ridicule in the media but going against the law will earn stiffer penalties like fines or even imprisonment, effectively making breaking the law a much less appealing avenue of approach. The law is therefore a greater threat than social custom for this reason as it has more widespread application and enforcement. Laws also have the full legal backing of the Constitution of the United States which allows for legislative bodies to produce laws and delegate authority to various agencies so that they can enforce these laws. This same backing is often absent in social custom and is much more whimsical in comparison.